Larry Starr, Sarasota area vacation rental expert for 25 years, knows what vacationers want when they visit Florida. A resident and longtime business owner, Larry Starr ’s Sarasota and Longboat Key area knowledge and advice are invaluable. In the following interview with the staff of Oceans 2003, Larry Starr describes the splendor of this area and the ways in which vacationers can make Longboat Key their temporary home.

Oceans 2003: First, where exactly is Longboat Key located?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: Longboat Key, Florida, is a barrier island that is tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and the Sarasota Bay, in the southwest region of the state.

Oceans 2003: What is the climate like in Longboat Key?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: It’s gorgeous! Eight months out of the year, the temperature is in the 70’s and 80’s and the sun is always shining. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the water stays fairly warm and the air is tranquil. The summer months are warmer but breezes from the Gulf of Mexico keep vacations cool and comfortable. The summer season is very busy.

Oceans 2003: How are the beaches?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: The white, sugar-sand beaches are some of the best in the world. Sarasota area vacationers will be amazed by the 12-mile long stretch of beach on Longboat Key.

Oceans 2003: What type of vacationer is drawn to Longboat Key?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: While well suited for couples and families looking for seclusion and relaxation, Longboat Key has so much to offer vacationers of all types and from all corners of the world. Sarasota’s rich, cultural attractions and nightlife are right next door if visitors want to spice things up a little.

Oceans 2003: What can vacationers do and see on Longboat Key?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: The Island offers a great mix of recreation, sightseeing and relaxation. From offshore and back water fishing, to playing tennis or golf, to shopping at St. Armand’s Circle, the possibilities are simply endless.

Oceans 2003: Tell our readers about the natural attractions on the island.

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: It is a beautiful and lush island, including mangroves rich with wildlife. There are several protected natural areas and parks. Vacationers, who enjoy birding, hiking, or biking, must make a trip to Myakka River State Park while they are here.

Oceans 2003: What accommodations are available to vacationers?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: The Island has many short and long-term rental options for vacationers. Larry Starr’s Sarasota and Longboat Key area vacation property rental and ownership companies offer 1, 2, and 3- bedroom townhomes, condominiums, and residential homes for sale and for short and long term rental.

Oceans 2003: What is the benefit of renting a vacation property rather than staying in a hotel?

Larry Starr, Sarasota/Longboat Key Expert: Each property is unique, but in general, properties can be rented by the day, week, month, or even for the whole year.

Larry Starr, Sarasota area vacation property owner and entrepreneur, offers hundreds of vacation rental properties on Longboat Key through his company Resort Vacation Accommodations. To contact Larry Starr and learn more about renting in Longboat Key, visit www.rvafl.com or www.longboatkey.com